Fortress Technology has launched a next-generation touchscreen interface for its food metal detectors, giving food manufacturers new tools for food safety monitoring, digital compliance and real-time reporting.

The new human-machine interface features a simplified design with bold buttons, contrasting icons and a multi-color warning system that enables operators to quickly access critical control point information and review alerts and events recorded in the system log.

The high-contrast display includes light and dark modes to improve visibility during safety-critical tasks. According to Fortress Technology, the design is intended to reduce human errors in fast-paced manufacturing environments.

The interface provides real-time monitoring of contaminant detection, conveyor and reject bin status, throughput metrics, sensitivity settings and the product being inspected. Event data is automatically logged for extraction and reporting.

Quality assurance reports can be exported via USB or automated using Fortress Technology's Contact 4.0 digital reporting technology. The system also supports networked data integration and offers optional OPC UA and Ethernet/IP communication adapters for customized real-time data capture and integration with plant monitoring systems, enterprise resource planning systems and databases.

When paired with Halo Automatic Testing, the interface supports compliance with food safety requirements, including Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points, Global Food Safety Initiative and Brand Reputation Compliance Global Standards programs, as well as retailer and supply chain codes of practice.

The 7.2-inch by 4.5-inch touchscreen is compatible with all metal detectors in the Fortress Technology product line. Processors using Stealth and Interceptor gravity, pipeline and conveyor metal detectors can upgrade to the new interface without extensive modifications.

The interface also includes 500 pre-programmed product categories and a multi-level password system designed to reduce setup times, shorten operator training and prevent unauthorized changes to inspection settings.

Fortress Technology said its existing membrane-style and stainless-steel human-machine interfaces will remain available for manufacturers operating in demanding and heavy washdown environments.